Top Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Bellevue, Iowa to Dunlap, Illinois

Are you planning a road trip from Bellevue, Iowa to Dunlap, Illinois? This road trip offers a variety of museums, parks, and landmarks to visit along the way. From history to nature, there's something for everyone on this trip!

Did you know that the distance between Bellevue, Iowa and Dunlap, Illinois is approximately 174 miles? It will take you approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes to drive this distance. However, this time frame does not include stops at the different places you will want to visit along the route.

The halfway point between Bellevue, Iowa and Dunlap, Illinois is Silvis, IL, which is approximately 86 miles from each location.

Now, let's take a look at the top five places to visit on this road trip:

1. National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium (Dubuque, IA)

The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is a great place to start your road trip. This museum offers a comprehensive look at the history, culture, and ecology of the Mississippi River. There are interactive exhibits, live animal displays, and a massive aquarium showcasing the many species that call the river home.

While visiting, be sure to take a paddleboat tour of the river, which is included in the admission ticket. This tour offers an up-close look at the wildlife and scenery along the riverbanks.

2. Effigy Mounds National Monument (Harpers Ferry, IA)

The Effigy Mounds National Monument offers a unique opportunity to explore Native American history in the Midwest. This park features over 200 mounds, most of which are shaped like animals such as bears, birds, and deer.

Visitors can explore this fascinating site through hiking trails that lead to different parts of the park. The overlook at the top offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding valley.

3. Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum (West Branch, IA)

The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum provides a comprehensive look at the life and career of the 31st US President. You'll learn about his humble beginnings in West Branch and his rise to power as a businessman, humanitarian, and political leader.

The museum also displays a collection of artifacts and documents that illustrate the history of the period, including the stock market crash of 1929, the Great Depression, and World War II.

4. Starved Rock State Park (Oglesby, IL)

Starved Rock State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. This park features 13 miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, canyons, and stunning vistas. Visitors can hike to the top of Starved Rock, which offers panoramic views of the Illinois River.

In addition to hiking, there are also opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping at the park. If you're planning to spend a few days in the area, consider renting a cabin or RV camping.

5. Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center (Skokie, IL)

The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center is a sobering but essential destination on this road trip. The museum tells the story of the Holocaust through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Visitors can explore this history and learn about the lives of those impacted by this tragic event. The museum also features a rotating series of temporary exhibits that highlight different aspects of the Holocaust and its impact on the world.

With all these places you're planning to visit, why not make a detour to The Oak Family Dairy of Dunlap Inc? A dairy farm and country store located in Dunlap, IL that offers fresh milk, cheese, and butter, plus homemade pie.

Overall, this road trip offers a variety of opportunities to explore history, culture, and nature along the Mississippi River. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, this road trip has something for everyone.